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Loneliness

• 4th Dec, 24 •

Loneliness is a state of distress, a discomfort that is felt even when in the company of another.

You can be surrounded by others or be in a loving relationship and still feel lonely. Loneliness is not the same as being alone. Some people may feel lonely at certain times in their life , whereas others may feel lonely for a long time, this is described as chronic loneliness, a deeper feeling that lasts longer.

Research suggests that loneliness can cause serious effects to wellbeing as well as impacting on physical health.

Loneliness can be caused by many factors such as

A bereavement

Living with illness

A relationship break up

Living with domestic abuse

Retirement

Moving location

Friends moving

Ending or starting a new social group

Becoming a parent

Struggling financially

Mental health

Having no friends or family

Estranged from family /friends

Walking along side someone in distress or discomfort

Experiencing discrimination as a result of disability, or long term health problem

Experiencing discrimination and stigma because of gender,  race, gender/sexual identity

And more…

As the Christmas season approaches and we enter a new year for many people the above factors can increase vulnerability, people who are feeling lonely  can be triggered by the season, as they see others celebrating together, hear music that reminds them of special memories, the feelings of loneliness can be overwhelming, but everyone’s experience will be different, as the experience is so very personal.

It is a time when being kind to ourselves and reaching out to others becomes particularly important . Counselling offers a space for you to talk and be understood, because your feelings and experience matters.

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